In addition to his responsibilities as medical director, Dr. Milla will treat patients with heart valve disease, end-stage heart failure and coronary artery disease. Specializing in mitral valve reconstruction, Dr. Milla brings a level of expertise to the Southeast that is sure to draw more renowned surgeons and other specialists to the area.

“We’ve made significant strides in building the infrastructure of the new center which provides interventional cardiology, imaging services and surgical care,” said Sidney Kirschner, president and CEO of Piedmont Heart. “We also have put together a team of 11 physicians including Dr. Milla, who will serve as the backbone of the center, and I’m confident his leadership will take us far.”

Last year, the Marcus Foundation donated $20 million to Piedmont Heart to establish the new center. Once fully operational, Piedmont’s Marcus Heart Valve Center will provide a seamless patient experience and package services into a time frame that is most convenient for them and their families.

“What sets this new center apart is the fact we've combined excellence in heart valve care with a seamless patient experience,” said Dr. Milla. "At Piedmont’s Marcus Heart Valve Center, patients will receive comprehensive heart valve care under one roof and, often times, within the same visit. They'll rest assured knowing there is a nurse navigator there to assist them through their appointments and understand what's going on at all times."

Nearly five million Americans are diagnosed with heart valve disease each year, according to the American Heart Association. Symptoms include shortness of breath, weakness or dizziness, chest pain or palpitations and swollen ankles, feet or abdomen. Sometimes, patients do not experience symptoms at all.

For more information about heart valve disease or to schedule an appointment with Piedmont’s Marcus Heart Valve Center, visit piedmontheart.org.